In Hinduism, dogs are considered sacred animals and are often associated with loyalty, protection, and guidance, holding a special place in the mythology and culture.
1. Association with Bhairava: Bhairava, a fierce form of Shiva, is often depicted with a dog as his companion. This association symbolizes the fierce protection and loyalty that dogs offer to their masters. Bhairava's dog is said to represent the fierce guardian aspect of the divine.
2. Association with Dattatreya: Dattatreya, an incarnation of the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, is often depicted with four dogs. These dogs represent the four Vedas (Rig, Yajur, Sama, and Atharva) and symbolize the loyalty and protection that knowledge offers. The four dogs are also said to represent the four stages of human life: childhood, youth, old age, and death.
3. Association with Yama: Yama, the god of death, is often depicted with two dogs that represent the messengers of death. These dogs are said to roam the earth, searching for souls to bring to Yama's abode. This association symbolizes the loyalty and protection that dogs offer even in the face of death.
4. Link between netherworld and Earth: In Hindu mythology, dogs are said to roam between the netherworld (Patala) and Earth, symbolizing their ability to navigate between different realms. This association makes dogs a symbol of guidance and protection for those who are transitioning between different stages of life and death.
5. Worship as a symbol of loyalty and protection: In some parts of India, dogs are worshipped as a symbol of loyalty and protection. This worship is often done by offering food and prayers to dogs, especially on specific days like Bhairava Ashtami. The worship of dogs is believed to bring blessings and protection from the divine.
6. Companions of gods and goddesses: In Hindu mythology, dogs are often depicted as the companions of gods and goddesses, symbolizing their loyalty and protection. For example, the goddess Kali is often depicted with a dog as her companion, symbolizing her fierce protection and loyalty to her devotees.
7. Association with Indra: Indra, the king of the gods, is often depicted with a dog as his companion. This association symbolizes the loyalty and protection that dogs offer to their masters, even in the face of adversity.
8. Symbolism of ego and attachment: Dogs are also seen as a symbol of the ego and attachment. This symbolism is based on the idea that dogs are fiercely loyal and protective of their masters, and can become attached to them. This attachment is seen as a symbol of the ego's attachment to worldly things.
9. Offerings in rituals: In some Hindu rituals, dogs are offered food and prayers as a symbol of loyalty and protection. This offering is often done to seek the blessings of the gods and to ensure protection and loyalty in one's life. The offerings are believed to bring blessings and protection from the divine.
